Tag Archives: 12th Anniversary

Show 598, October 12, 2024: 12th Anniversary Show Introduction with Executive Producer & Co-Host Andy Harris

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Andy Harris and Andrew Gruel at Cabana 14 at the Cove at Pechanga Resort and Casino

Chef Andrew Gruel of Calico Fish House on Pacific Coast Highway in the Sunset Beach area of Huntington Beach and the Co-Host of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” for the last eight years joins us to celebrate the 12th Anniversary of the launch of the “SoCal Restaurant Show” on AM 830 KLAA radio reaching all of Southern California.

We’re live today from the Jute Patio overlooking the well-maintained 9-hole golf course at Westdrift Manhattan Beach – an Autograph Collection Hotel and the Official Hotel of the inaugural Manhattan Beach Food & Wine which continues tonight from 7 to 10:00 p.m. (VIP admission at 6:00 p.m.) at Manhattan Village.

All of our distinguished chef guests this morning are participants in the Festival.

For today’s very special anniversary show we’ll be joined by some of the high-profile and uber-talented chefs cooking at Manhattan Beach Food and Wine including Eric Klein, Executive Chef, Partner and Senior Vice President Culinary for Wolfgang Puck Catering, Host Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird & Vibiana, The Bay Area’s Chris Cosentino and Jayro Martinez of Westwood Coast Steakhouse in Costa Mesa. Also, Lisa Fontanesi, the long-time Los Angeles Director for C-CAP, the benefiting charity of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.

Special thanks to our loyal Presenting Sponsors, Melissa’s World Variety Produce and West Coast Prime Meats, for their unwavering support over the years. And to our listeners – we appreciate you tuning-in.
All of this and heaping helpings of extra deliciousness on this week’s not-to-miss show!

Show 598, October 12, 2024: Chef Neal Fraser of Redbird and Vibiana, DTLA. Host Chef for Manhattan Beach Food & Wine

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Neal Fraser of Redbird

“Chef Neal Fraser and Amy Knoll’s flagship restaurant Redbird in Downtown Los Angeles features Modern American cuisine that is refined yet approachable and highlights the multi-cultural influences of Fraser’s native city – Los Angeles. As a follow up to Grace and BLD, Fraser’s menu features seasonal plates ranging from snacks or “kickshaws” to entrees meant to be enjoyed by the whole table. An extensive cocktail menu by Tobin Shea features well-balanced, bespoke renditions of the classics. Wine Director Christopher Dugan’s selections are well rounded with great finds from both established and emerging wine regions throughout the world.”

“Located in downtown Los Angeles, Redbird is carved into one of the city’s most historic architectural gems, inside the former rectory building of Vibiana – the cathedral-turned-event-venue also owned and operated by Knoll and Fraser. Designer Robert Weimer and Knoll created a dynamic space that pays homage to the cathedral next door and the existing timeless architecture by inserting simple modern forms to complement rather than overtake the feel of the rooms. The result is a warm and comfortable considered space.”

Event Host Chef Neal Fraser is our guest discussing the salivating culinary aspects of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.

Show 598, October 12, 2024: Lisa Fontanesi, Los Angeles Director, Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP)

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Lisa Fontanesi of C-CAP Los Angeles

The Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is the charitable beneficiary of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine. Lisa Fontanesi is the long-time Los Angeles Director. We’ll meet her.

“Led by chef, author and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson as national Board Co-chair, Careers C-CAP transforms the lives of underserved high school students and young people around the country by helping them pursue their culinary dreams. C-CAP prepares these talented young adults for college, and for careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry.”

Annually, C-CAP provides culinary, job and life skills to over 22,000 middle-and-high school students across the entire state of Arizona, as well as in Baltimore, Camden, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City & Long Island, Newark, Philadelphia, suburban Maryland, and Washington DC.

Show 598, October 12, 2024: Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, Westwood Coast Steakhouse, Triangle Square, Costa Mesa

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Jayro Martinez of Westwood Coast Steakhouse

“Westwood Coast Steakhouse, the newest culinary venture from San Francisco-based Proof Positive, debuted in early July at Triangle Square in Costa Mesa. Proof Positive now makes its debut in Orange County with Westwood Coast Steakhouse by pairing an elevated, chef-driven steakhouse dining experience with lively country entertainment.

At the helm of the kitchen is Executive Chef Jayro Martinez, a C-CAP graduate, who brings over a decade of culinary experience to the venture. Martinez has led as an Executive Chef in several acclaimed kitchens, including Mayfield in San Juan Capistrano, AHBA in Laguna Beach, Social in Costa Mesa, and most recently, at Dana Point’s Outer Reef and then Knife Modern Steak under the tutelage of Texas-based celebrity Chef John Tesar.

“Westwood Coast is bolstered by a team of powerhouse hospitality professionals, including General Manager Michael Ruiz of BOA Steakhouse. Westwood Coast presents a unique experience that artfully blends attentive hospitality, lively entertainment, and bold American flavors with premium cuts of meat.”

A Dinner menu highlight is the massive 40 oz. Australian Wagyu Ribeye from Margaret River. The Korean chili glazed Duck Wings with sesame and green onion are worth contemplating, too.

Executive Chef Jayro Martinez is our guest to reveal all the diverse elements that are Westwood Coast and what he’s preparing (dual dishes) for the Grand Tasting tonight at Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.

Show 598, October 12, 2024: Westdrift Manhattan Beach – An Autograph Collection Hotel

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Jim McCaferty of Westdrift Hotel

The Westdrift Manhattan Beach, an Autograph Collection Hotel, is the official hotel of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine.

The expansive 26-acre property with a 9-hole, par 3 golf course and pickleball courts is a boutique hotel for travelers of all callings and Westdrift Manhattan Beach delivers the sophistication of a true-blue East Coast classic blended with the laid-back vibe of coastal California.

“Modern decor and sophisticated amenities combine to create Westdrift’s intimate guest spaces, sumptuously adorned for comfort with the rolling golf course views and sparkling city lights in view for that added touch of luxury.”

“Jute Coastal Bar & Kitchen, Westdrift’s signature restaurant for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, is an indoor-outdoor enclave that features a fresh, creative and communal-focused dining experience.”

“Jute’s signature cocktails, craft beer, and wines from private labels will whisk you away on an experience slated to elevate the already vibrant Manhattan Beach culinary scene. Calling upon talents of local mixologists to evolve their ever-changing cocktail menu, Westdrift’s Mixology Lab is always testing new ingredients and innovative techniques using seasonal ingredients.”

Westdrift’s Jim McCafferty, Director of Catering & Events is our guide to all the luxe amenities of Westdrift Manhattan Beach.